Jack Reed of the Broncos runs the ball during the round 15 NRL match between the North Queensland Cowboys and the Brisbane Broncos at Dairy Farmers Stadium on June 15, 2012 in Townsville, Australia. Ian Hitchcock

Mal Meninga verdict rejected by Broncos' Reed

BRISBANE centre Jack Reed has rejected suggestions the Broncos do not have enough strike power to feature in the finals.

The Bribie Island product, who will play in a round-one blockbuster against Manly at Suncorp Stadium on Friday night, is eager to prove wrong Queensland coach Mal Meninga, who has declared Brisbane an also-ran because of a suspected lack of spark in attack.

"We've been working hard on our defence, which has been our main goal, but when it comes to attack we can be as sharp as any other side out there," Reed said.

"We'd like to think we're a top-four side. It's always a goal year in, year out, and we've been training hard enough to earn that spot.

"We're definitely confident we can be there."

The Broncos only just edged into the playoffs last year in the absence of retired playmaker Darren Lockyer.

Meninga used his Sunday Mail column last weekend to question whether Broncos ball players Peter Wallace and Scott Prince had the running game to trouble opposing outfits.

Reed, however, has plenty of faith in the new-look pairing.

"They're both great halves and they've both done great things in their careers so far," he said.

"I think they can be a great combination.

"Prince has got a bit of flair about him, which we can always do with in our side, and Peter Wallace is one of those tough, skilful players."

Meninga also used his column to suggest Brisbane's attack would be some

what predictable, with traffic directed down Justin Hodges' side.

However, Reed is keen to do some damage of his own on the left flank.

"We're lucky enough that both edges are strong in attack and defence," he said.

"Hodgie is a great player and is in unbelievable form and if the ball goes to him a bit more because of his form, that's well earned. I'll just sit and wait and when the ball comes to my edge I'll try to take the opportunity."

West Yorkshire-born Reed burst to prominence in 2011 when selected for England and named the Broncos' rookie-of-the-year.

Selected for the NRL All Stars match last year, he was forced to get post-season shoulder surgery after grappling with it for months.

"Last year was an eye-opener, coming in with second-year syndrome and with players knowing who you are," he said.

"But I think this year I'm looking to give my bit to the team and be a bit of a strike weapon."

Think you are a top NRL tipster? Prove it! You could have a tip-top reason to big note yourself if you sign up for the QLD Jeep Dealers NRL Footy Tipping. Entry is FREE and easy.